Hanoi (VNA) - The national flag carrier Vietnamꦡ Airlines has announced that it will increase the number of flights to meet travel demand during the National Day (September 2) holidays, which last from August 30 to September 4.

The number of seats during the period will be about 500,000, equivalent to nearly 2,500 flights. The additional flights will mostly be operated on domestic routes connecting Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, Da Lat and Cam Ranh; Ho Chi Minh City and Hue and Phu Quoc. The number of seats on domestic flights is expected to reach 330,000, up 19% from the same period last year. The international routes with the most additional flights are those between Vietnam and India, China, Thailand, and Australia, bringing the total seats to over 150,000, equivalent to more than 650 flights, a slight increase compared to last year’s corresponding period. It is noteworthy that the booking rate on key domestic tourist routes has reached nearly 50% and is forecasted to continue to surge in the coming time, the carrier said. International routes to India, China, Thailand, and Australia also recorded positive results with occupancy rates ranging from 50% to 70%. Ensuring the supply capacity during the peak period of National Day holiday is a great effort of Vietnam Airlines in the context of the aviation industry's shortage of aircraft due to the recall of engines for inspections worldwide. In recent months, the carrier has received an additional Airbus A320neo and a Boeing 787-10 to meet passengers' increasing demand during the peak summer travel season. Vietnam Airlines recommends that passengers book air tickets early to have more flight options and can get an attractive price. They are advised to carry out check-in process in advance through telephone, website, mobile application, or at kiosks at airports in order to save time./.